Festive Light Show Offers New Purpose This Season

A longstanding holiday tradition in a neighborhood just east of Oakdale has expanded this year – both in size and scope.

The traditional Atlas Court holiday light show has entertained residents from throughout the region over the past several years. Now, organizers are hoping to give back a little, by virtue of those that come to enjoy the spectacle.

“This year the Christmas light show has grown,” said Bob Crossman, whose home is the original over-the-top decorated masterpiece. “We now have every house on the court with synchronized lights and music.”

While Crossman said that “it’s pretty cool” to have all the homes involved, they are more excited about a new partnership.

“The best thing we are doing this year is partnering with the Center for Human Services on a new toy and new coat drive,” he said.

Those driving through the holiday themed light and music show are asked to bring a new toy or coat for donating. It is not required, but in the spirit of the holiday, organizers hope people will give, with the toys and coats assisting with filling needs in the Angel Tree project coordinated through Center for Human Services.

The light show kicked off on Friday, Dec. 1 and will run all this month, wrapping up on Dec. 31; hours for the show are 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

“The Center for Human Services will have someone in our court on (Fridays) Dec. 8 and Dec. 15 collecting the toys and coats,” Crossman said. “In addition, we have three containers that will be out every evening for people to drop off toys and coats.”

The representative from Center for Human Services will be in the court both Fridays from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. to collect the donations. Other times, those driving through are encouraged to drop off donations in the containers provided.

“There are a total of 10 houses participating plus our center circle,” Crossman said of this year’s light display.